Crystal Palace are braced to lose Jean-Philippe Mateta amid mounting interest from Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United.
The 28-year-old French striker is enjoying one of the best runs of form in his career, and while Palace had initially hoped to tie him down to a new deal, multiple sources have now confirmed that those contract talks are effectively over. Mateta is ready to move on, and the Eagles are expected to cash in with a £40 million fee enough to get a deal over the line.
Palace set to lose Jean-Philippe Mateta
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From a Tottenham perspective, Mateta represents an ideal January option. He brings Premier League experience, physical presence, and finishing quality, three things Spurs’ frontline has sorely lacked in spells this season. With Richarlison inconsistent and Dominic Solanke still adjusting, Mateta could come straight in and challenge for a starting berth in Thomas Frank’s setup.
United are also circling. Benjamin Sesko has flattered to deceive at times this season, and with Rasmus Hojlund still developing, Mateta’s ability to hit double digits in goals offers immediate output. He’s also proven himself on the big stage, helping Palace lift silverware and break into the France national team setup.
The big question for Mateta could be Europe, something Tottenham and Newcastle are better placed to offer right now compared to a mid-table United. That could shift the needle when a final decision is made, although United’s brand and stature remain significant pulls.
Palace now appear resigned to losing their star forward. A January exit looks likeliest, and £40 million is the fee multiple clubs are being quoted. Spurs are monitoring the situation closely, with Mateta seen as a low-risk, high-upside addition for the second half of the campaign. If the north Londoners want to sharpen their attacking edge in the business end of the season, this is the kind of signing that makes sense.